What areas may economics expert witnesses consult on? They may write reports and opine on business valuations, damage calculations, financial fraud, and other aspects of business. Charged with official misconduct, theft and false entry, suspended Deputy Fire Chief Ronald Pieri is accused of defrauding Highwood, IL, taxpayers by falsifying time records and claiming compensation for hours not worked between 2006 and 2010. While economics expert witness for the defense Benjamin Wilner testified “there is no economic basis behind any of the prosecutor’s allegations that Mr. Pieri defrauded Highwood,” the Lake County state’s attorney’s office has brought criminal charges. Allegations include accepting approximately $50K in salary when he was not on the clock.